The influence of neuronal Guidance molecules Neogenin, UNC5, and Netrin-1 on regeneration of peripheral nerve lesions

Status:

completed 06/2013

Aims:

Less is known about the role of neuronal guidance molecules Netrin-1, UNC5b and RGMa in the peripheral nervous system. In this study, we evaluated these proteins using the mouse median nerve model for assessment of peripheral nerve regeneration.

Activities/Methods:

Using real-time PCR and Western Blot analysis, we examined expression changes of specific mRNA and protein after transection and repair of the mouse median nerve. We further evaluated histomorphometrical changes as well as the functional recovery of the grasping force after median nerve transection and repair in wildtype mice and heterozygous mice. RT-PCR revealed an increase of mRNA for all three proteins two weeks after nerve transection and repair in the nerve segment distal to the injury site. In Western blot analysis, we could show a high increase of protein expression in the nerve segment distal to the injury site at day 14. Histomorphometrical analysis did not show any significant differences between wildtype animals and heterozygous animals. Using the functional grasping test, we could show that peripheral nerve regeneration is significantly diminished in heterozygous mice.

Results:

Employing the mouse median nerve model in transgenic animals, we demonstrate that Netrin-1, UNC5b and RGMa play an important role during peripheral nerve regeneration.

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